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    Franck
    What do you think is the pinnacle of the sports car? What ideal car would you like to own and drive if your wildest dreams of speed could come true? You may not have the same answer as me, but it seems obvious to me that the most challenging motor competition is Formula 1. Getting behind the wheel of a Formula 1 is probably what is the most difficult and the most exclusive. I remember the TV journalists who barely managed to keep their Formula 1 on the track. And other journalists who spoke of a black veil as a passenger, in certain corners.
     
    How is it possible to realize your dream of owning a Formula 1? Can you acquire one of the most prestigious, namely a Ferrari? What are the costs involved? Under what conditions can you then benefit from it?
     

     
    How many Ferrari Formula 1s are available to customers?
     
    By browsing the Ferrari website, you will discover that nearly 200 Formula 1 produced by the prancing horse brand are now owned by customers. 200 really? How is such a figure possible?
     
    In fact, Ferrari builds up to 8 Formula 1 chassis per year. In 2001, 10 chassis had even been produced. You can find on the internet the list of names, serial numbers and chassis numbers built by Ferrari each year since 1948.
     
    In 1970, Ferrari started a new numbering of its Formula 1 chassis. This year, chassis numbers 275 to 279 are used in the championship. Ferrari sells its Formula 1 cars to its customers two years after production to make sure that no important secrets go to the competition in this way.
     

     
    How does Ferrari take care of your Formula 1?
     
    The department at Ferrari dedicated to the sale and maintenance of old Formula 1 cars is called "Ferrari F1 Clienti". Around 200 Formula 1 Ferraris are stored and serviced in Maranello. A specific warehouse, representing incredible value, contains these Formula 1s.
     
    When you buy one of these Formula 1s, specific settings may be requested, a seat is molded to your dimensions and training on the Fiorano circuit is provided.
     
    It is then former mechanics present at the edge of the Formula 1 tracks who take care of these very special cars. Outings on prestigious circuits are organized by the "Corse Clienti" department.
     

     
    What are the costs of owning a Formula 1 Ferrari?
     
    It is only possible to give you an idea because the costs vary a lot depending on the copies and their use. To my knowledge, the most recent Ferrari Formula 1 cars sell for between 2 and 2.5 million euros. The prices vary according to many parameters such as the prize list of the considered copy.
     
    In addition, there is an annual fee to store, maintain and offer you some circuit outings during the year. If my information is correct, these costs represent between 100 and 200,000 euros per year for a Ferrari. Obviously these cars are not under warranty. Any accident during an exit from the track results in a substantial check to restore your Formula 1 to its original state.
     
    If you also want to use your Formula 1 Ferrari on a particular circuit, near your home for example, Ferrari will ask you for 40,000 euros. This includes a full support team that travels for several days from Maranello with your Formula 1. If you find other Ferrari Formula 1 owners to tour with you on this circuit, you can share the costs.
     

     
    Which cars represent for you the pinnacle of sports cars? Would you buy a Formula 1 if you could afford it? If so, which model? Did you know that Ferrari has produced so many Formula 1s and that they are maintained in Maranello for its customers? Have you had the opportunity to watch Formula 1 cars run by the F1 Clienti service? Have you ever driven a Formula 1?
     
    If you liked that article, you may also like reading :
    - Where should you have your Ferrari serviced?
    - 50 Ferrarista members at the 70th anniversary of Ferrari in Maranello
    - 5 reasons to choose the Ferrari F355 against the 360 Modena or vice versa ...
    spdk 90
    The Ferrari 488 GTB made a lot of noise with the arrival of the turbo on Ferrari V8 engines, with the fear that noise, precisely, there is no more, or at least not enough. However, the turbo V8 was nothing new at Ferrari since the legendary Ferrari 288 GTO and Ferrari F40, no less, are also equipped with a turbo V8. So how does it compare to the Ferrari 458 Italia it replaced? Are anti-pollution standards killing fun and ultimately brands like Ferrari? We have a lot of feedback on Ferrarista on Ferrari that are no longer produced, but this is rarer on Ferrari that are in production at the time of writing. Also a big THANK YOU to @spdk 90 who gives us here his feedback with his Ferrari 488 GTB, which he can compare us with the Ferrari 468 Italia he previously owned.
     
    Franck : What is your driving history and why did you choose the Ferrari 488 GTB?
     
    SPDK 90 : My car background: Renault Clio 16s, Renault Clio Williams, VW Golf cabriolet GTI, BMW Z3 2 liters and BMW Z3M, Porsche Boxster 2.5, and 3.2, Porsche Cayman S PDK 320ch, Audi R8 V8 and Audi R8 V10 spider , Ferrari 458 Italia and now Ferrari 488 GTB.
     
    Why did I choose the Ferrari 488 GTB? The Ferrari 458 Italia was for me the best of all my cars. Regarding the Ferrari 488 GTB, I basically hated turbos because of the wind tunnel sound and the acceleration response time. But Ferrari Strasbourg / Mulhouse left it with me for a weekend and ... I had a hard time returning it. Ferrari has reinvented the turbo! The Ferrari 488 GTB has all the best features of the Ferrari 458 Special: it couldn't be missed.
     
     
    Franck : What were your criteria for buying a Ferrari 488 GTB and how did you find this one?
     
    SPDK 90 : My purchasing criteria were absolutely a Race configuration, so leather and alcantara racing seat, a carbon steering wheel, stripes, anthracite rims, etc. The problem was that a lot of the cars were under-equipped. Suddenly the purchase of a new one, with a wait of 11 months, was imperative. 
     
    Mr. Olivier Beaune of Ferrari Sausheim took over the Ferrari 458 Italia from me two years after its purchase and with 16,000 kilometers traveled without problems at the same price, subject to consignment. My beauty has since gone to Corsica. I recommend Mr. Olivier Beaune for listening, advice, take-over values and very good customer support. 

    The configuration of my Ferrari 458 Italia was more the one of a GT car: Rosso Scuderia with full beige leather, Diamond rims, etc. While my Ferrari 488 GTB is ultimately more racing with carbon, Goldrake seats, Alcantara, the Led steering wheel, in Rosso Corsa color, with the camera, etc.
     

     
    Franck : Immediately after the purchase, what did you like the most about driving your Ferrari 488 GTB?
     
    SPDK 90 : The Ferrari 488 GTB is a real glue, it is taped to the bitumen. At the wheel, you are glued to the seats and the acceleration is stratospheric. On the other hand, it is really very wide. But seeing the big intake vents in the mirrors is pure bliss. 
     
    By comparison, the Ferrari 458 Italia is a marvel, plus the sound and minus the jerkiness, braking and some assembly faults.
     
    In the Ferrari 488 GTB, the build quality is worthy of a German car. It is a real glue stuck to the ground, with no response time from the turbos. The sound for a turbo is great, it is huge compared to the Ferrari 458 and the braking is awesome.
     

     
    Franck : Can you tell us about the costs incurred for normal use of a Ferrari 488 GTB (insurance, annual maintenance, major overhaul, unforeseen events, etc.)? 
     
    SPDK 90 : For the moment, I have driven 7,000 kilometers at the wheel of the Ferrari 488 GTB, no problem to report, a super reliable vehicle still so wonderful, always so bestial.
     
    For insurance, I am on a budget of 1,900 euros per year, which includes a replacement cost option for 600 euros per year. For the rest, I get the 7 year maintenance, but I think you have to plan a good tire budget compared to the Ferrari 458 Italia.
     

     
    Franck : And if you had to do it again ?
     
    SPDK 90 : I would do the same thing again: the same model in the same garage. Olivier Beaune from the Ferrari Sausheim dealership does his job very well.

    What about you, do you have any more questions for @spdk 90? And if you also own a Ferrari 488 GTB, what could you add to help other members get to know this model better? What are the big pluses of the model from your point of view? Why did you choose the Ferrari 488 GTB?
     

     
    Si cet article vous a plus, vous aimerez aussi :
    - Long-term test: Ferrari F12 Berlinetta by Trois Cinquante Cinq
    - Long-term test: 458's Ferrari 458 Speciale
    - Long-term test: Riton's Ferrari 430 Scuderia
    - Long term test: Calif38's Ferrari California
     
    Trois cinquante cinq
    The Ferrari F12 Berlinetta and its fabulous V12 engine is very desirable, with its 740hp, the magnificent sound of the V12 and its agility of berlinette. It has been awarded by numerous magazines, among others with the prize for the best engine of the year in 2013.
    But what is the reality over the long run when you own it? Is there fun at each outing? Aren't the costs excessive to drive regularly? And how do you find a good copy? To find out, here is the return of @Trois cinquante cinq, a big fan of Ferrari and who is not in his first Ferrari.
     

     
    What is your history with cars and why did you choose the Ferrari F12 Berlinetta?
     
    My first car was a white Peugeot 205 GTI, followed by an almost brand new VW Corrado VR6, 2 years after its release, and which I had bought from a notary at the end of my studies. I have great memories of it. Its 6 cylinders in line was fabulous for the time!
    My third sports car was the culmination of a dream with the 13,000-kilometer Ferrari F355 Berlinetta, with which I traveled 49,000 kilometers behind the wheel. It was almost yesterday, yet 14 years have already passed.
    For the past year and a half, I've been driving my Ferrari F12 Berlientta, a real achievement for the enthusiast attached to the history of the brand that I am.
    As you know, after looking in vain for a Ferrari Challenge Stradale for almost 2 years, I ordered a Ferrari 488 GTB at the Geneva Motor Show in 2016. The latter was luckily never delivered on time, despite my patience. The loan of a Ferrari F12 on a spring afternoon on the back country roads sealed my decision, no hesitation, it represents everything I liked and everything I like about Ferrari !!!
     

     
    What were your criteria for buying a Ferrari F12 Berlinetta and how did you find this one?
     
    I wanted a Ferrari F12 Berlinetta as close to new as possible, and with as many options as possible. No Rosso Corsa, no black. But I was open to yellow and other shades of gray, and more particularly the Grigio Ferro.
    She arrived in Rosso Berlinetta and it's perfect. I couldn't have asked for more except the Rosso Fuoco which is a slightly more orange shade in the color codes. I acquired it by word of mouth as soon as it entered the Ferrari dealership after a new purchase from its previous owner.
     


    Immediately after the purchase, what impressed you most at the wheel of your Ferrari F12?
     
    Honestly, this is the best engine / gearbox assembly I have ever seen! The V12 is from the Enzo XX program !!!
    It is a real block from the race, placed in the central front position, no inertia, an incredible extension and climbs in regimes where the longitudinal G takes your breath away. The sound emits different vocalizations every 1000 additional turns. It's ecstatic sound !!!
    It is also the engine that will be used in the LaFerrari and to which we simply added the KERS. The extension is amazing, giving the feeling that the acceleration is endless. The plateau from 5500 to 8500 turns is really physical!
    The gear changes on the climb and on the descent smack like shots. It's so addictive !!!
    To ride, the instructions are simple, you have to apply a light pressure on the brakes and the nose goes straight to the rope. Weight is not felt in most circumstances, even if it is there and you should keep this parameter in mind. I find the car agile, and the ultra direct steering contributes to this vocation affirmed by its name of berlinette V12. At this level, it is very different from a Ferrari 599 whose size somewhat limits the use.
    Each time I turn the key, and the V12 suddenly wakes up, it's an incredible sensation, namely the promise of having all 5 senses fulfilled by the ballad that will follow. Always with humility, because the violence of the accelerations and the thrusts of the engine torque do not forgive anyone who is behind the wheel. Important thing to know with the Ferrari F12, it is the imperative to heat the gums well to pass the power on the second gear. 740 hp on the rear wheels require this manual!
    The F12 offers so much, whether in terms of physical, sound or visual sensations! Its design is very pure, with subtlety and strength ... The car has an incredible presence !!!
     

     
    Can you tell us about the costs involved in normal use of a Ferrari F12 (insurance, annual maintenance, major overhaul, contingencies, etc.)?

    I benefit from free maintenance for 7 years following delivery of the car to its owner. I have covered 10,000 kilometers since its purchase and are gradually completing the break-in!
    Nothing to report on this side. Distribution by chain, double clutch gearbox made to last the life of the car, wear-resistant carbon-ceramic discs on open roads ... All you have to do is drive !!!
    Reliability feedback on the F12 is excellent. It is a well born car!
    Regarding insurance, I pay € 150 / month including all risks.
     
    And if it had to be done again, what would you change?
     
    I would buy the same Ferrari F12, it corresponds to my dream, to the conception I have of the brand's history and to the relationship I have with it.
    Besides, it should have been called the LaFerrari, as it brings together the fundamentals and perfectly symbolizes the history of Ferrari.
    When you have tasted the V12 of the Ferrari F12, it's hard to imagine driving with anything else, except a Ferrari F12 TDF (which will remain a dream due to its current and future pricing).
    The future of the brand's road cars does not inspire me, I like mechanics, not electricity, and the kilometers of electric cables associated with the exclusively turbocharged engines of future models leave me cold. Also if a day arrives when we have to turn the page, I would probably leave the brand that has lived with me since I was 16 years old.
    My only regret is to have missed the Ferrari Challenge Stradale by not being able to find a copy that meets my expectations, as you know, but the F12 remains the guardian of the temple.
     

     
    How do you use Ferrarista for your experience with your Ferrari?

    I try to share my experiences and learn from that of others. I learn again and again about the history of the brand, the subtleties of the different models, mechanically or historically. It is a group of enthusiasts who eat and sleep Ferrari, and I recognize myself well in this approach which naturally leads to sharing and meetings. Very beautiful meetings and many people have become friends! Besides Franck, I think it's been almost 15 years that we have been friends !!!
    Eternal recognition to @eric355 who throughout my Ferrari experience (especially with my ex-Ferrari F355) often reassured me technically and allowed me to sleep on my two ears!
     

    THANK YOU @Trois cinquante cinq for this very detailed and passionate feedback on the Ferrari F12 Berlinetta! Do you have any other information you would like to know about using the Ferrari F12 Berlinetta? Or if you own a Ferrari F12 Berlinetta, what information would you like to share?
     
    If you liked this article, you might also like :
    - Long-term test: 458's Ferrari 458 Speciale
    - Long-term test: Riton's Ferrari 430 Scuderia
    - Long-term test: 20 months and 14,000 kilometers in a Ferrari 550 Maranello
    - Long term test: Calif38's Ferrari California
    458
    The Ferrari 458 Speciale has the most powerful V8 atmospheric engine ever produced by Ferrari. As such, and because it is part of the line of special series like the Ferrari Challenge Stradale and Ferrari 430 Scuderia, it retains a very strong rating.
     
    Is it the right time to buy a Ferrari 458 Speciale? Should you keep it? What to expect at the wheel and in terms of cost of use? You will get the most relevant information from an owner. @458, member of Ferrarista, who has had one for several years, gives you his experience feedback with his Ferrari 458 Speciale.
     

     
    Franck :  What is, quickly, your car experience and why did you choose the Ferrari 458 Speciale?
     
    458 : My first sportscar was a Peugeot 205 GTI 1.9L: it represented in 1986 the small sportscar that was ideal by its size, its performance and its reasonable price (93 200 Francs).
     
    After the Peugeot 405 Mi16, the BMW M3 marked my career by their performance likely to compete with the Porsche and their versatility, allowing you just as much to turn on the circuit as to go on weekends.
     
    Then the attraction of driving on the track made me choose a Porsche 997 GT3 then a Nissan GTR.
     

     
    Franck : What were your criteria for buying a Ferrari 458 Speciale and how did you get that copy?
     
    458 : I was very satisfied with my Ferrari 458 Italia: it marked a considerable progress in terms of reliability and finish at Ferrari until the day (March 13, 2015) I tried a Ferrari 458 Speciale. The exceptional handling, the surgical direction, the V8 of anthology developing 135cv / l at 9000 r / min, associated with a gearbox as fast as effective immediately conquered me.
     
    I decided to order one and configure MY Speciale! Rosso Corsa, NART bands, harness ... It was delivered to me on July 11, 2015.
     

     
    Franck :  Immediately after the purchase, what was you fiordt feelingwhile driving your Ferrari 458 speciale?
     
    458 : The feeling of having the chance to own an anthology Ferrari in the line of the Challenge Stradale and 430 Scuderia: the culmination of this line of exceptional sportscars with a rear central atmospheric engine.
     
    The sensation of being in osmosis with this Speciale is enjoyable: the instinctive steering places the front without latency, where the eyes are placed. The engine without any inertia responds to the slightest solicitation of the right foot and climbs to the red line at 9000 rpm in an inexhaustible breath and the pilotsportcup2 tires, once at temperature, provide an impressive grip.
     

     
    Franck : Can you tell us about the costs involved for a normal use of the Ferrari 458Speciale?
     
    458 :  Ferrari offers free maintenance for 7 years.
     
    I had no problems, neither mechanics nor electronics, and the finish is at the level of what we can expect from a sportcar today.
     
    There is no depreciation since the rating of the Speciale is high. Its value will only increase in time.

    The very reasonable usage costs are therefore limited to insurance costs (2000 Eur / year), fuel (20l / 100KM) and consumables if used on circuit.
     
    Franck : And if you had to do it again ?
     
    458 :  Without hesitation, I would order again a Ferrari 458 Speciale. I do not intend to part with it!
     
    Franck :  Thank you @458 for these very interesting returns!
     

     
    If you own a Ferrari 458 Speciale, what other information would you add to those who want to buy one? If you are thinking of buying a Ferrari 458 Speciale, what questions do you ask yourself about it before taking the plunge?

    If you like this article, you will also like:
    - Long term test: Calif38's Ferrari California
    - Long term test: Guillaume84's Ferrari F430
    - Long term test: Matmatlr's Ferrari 348
    - Long term test: Riton's Ferrari 430 Scuderia
    - Long term test: one year and 6000 kilometers with a Ferrari Challenge Stradale
    Franck
    The Ferrari 430 Scuderia is one of the most desirable recent Ferraris, for its lighter, stripped-down, track-oriented side, with performance up from the Ferrari F430 and an aggressive look of its own. With a production reduced to just over 2,000 cars, a fine copy remains difficult to find and its cost remains high. Under these conditions, the more you know the model, the more you will be able to make a quick decision not to miss the gem.
     
    How to find the best information on buying a Ferrari 430 Scuderia? What should you look out for before you take the plunge and sign your check? What to expect in terms of user costs? The best is to ask an owner, who has already followed the same path. Riton was kind enough to answer my questions regarding the purchase of its Ferrari 430 Scuderia and its long-term use. You will find in this interview interesting information, for you to access the dream and acquire your Ferrari 430 Scuderia too.
     

     
    Franck: Hello Riton. What is your history with cars quickly and why did you choose the Ferrari 430 Scuderia?
     
    Riton: Hello Franck. First, offering myself a Ferrari 430 Scuderia at 40 is the culmination of a long journey for the Cavalino Rampante enthusiast. My automotive journey has always been part of this logic because even when I bought a Renault Sport Spider with my first salaries, even when I became a member of Club Lotus France, even when I had the opportunity to drive in a Porsche I knew deep down that the ultimate goal was to own a Ferrari, the bella macchina par excellence. The 430 Scuderia was obviously part of this logic for me because I wanted a modern car, not being a mechanical professional, but also a stripped down car closer to the image I had of a Ferrari. The Ferrari Challenge Stradale would have been another possibility, but the tighter lines of the Scuderia made the difference.
     

     
    Franck: What were your criteria for buying a Ferrari 430 Scuderia and how did you find your copy?
     
    Riton: For me, the essentials were the harnesses, the roll bar, the LED steering wheel, the fire extinguisher, the calipers in red and the original racing stripes. I wanted an interior in technical fabric or Alcantara, more consistent in my opinion with the vocation of the car. Two other points were imperative in making a dream come true: Rosso Corsa and full service history in the Ferrari network. It was therefore natural that I found my car at Pozzi, where I went very regularly for two years, before taking action.
     
    Franck: Immediately after the purchase, what impressed you most about your Ferrari 430 Scuderia?
     
    Riton: My apprehension concerned the Superfast 2 gearbox, or more precisely the use of pallets. As soon as I left the dealership, on the day of delivery, I forced myself not to switch to auto mode, including on the Paris ring road, and since then I enjoy each change of gear.
     

     
    Franck: Looking back, what are the good sides of your copy of Ferrari 430 Scuderia and the possible problems or faults encountered?
     
    Riton: I have owned this Ferrari 430 Scuderia for 7 months and it would be presumptuous to say that I master it perfectly, that I know all its strengths and all its weaknesses. Among the good sides, I will mention the sound and the gear changes, brutal and terribly addictive. Harnesses are not a constraint with an electronic toll system and, in my opinion, fully participate in the spirit of the car. Its only defect is related to the technical fabric which wrinkles a little when it is exposed to too strong heat. I also found the rear aesthetically too heavy, with badly "finished" exhaust tips, but by opting for titanium tips in Ferrari accessories, I solved the problem.
     

     
    Franck: Can you tell us about the costs involved in normal use of a Ferrari 430 Scuderia?
     
    Riton: I chose a specimen benefiting from the Ferrari Approved guarantee, certainly a little more expensive but psychologically very reassuring. Over the first two years, I therefore plan to spend between 1,000 and 1,500 euros per year for the annual review. My only concern is the wear on the clutch. So I strive to respect the advice found on the Ferrarista.club forum.
     
    Franck: What advice would you give to someone looking to buy a Ferrari 430 Scuderia?
     
    Riton: It is very easy to crack on a Scuderia. Before buying it is better to draw up a very precise list of the configuration chosen and stick to it. I would tend to prefer a model equipped with a harness and a roll bar, very expensive to install as an aftermarket, and in my opinion completely consistent with the spirit of the car. They will add value to the car in the event of resale. Finally, it is necessary to check, of course, the percentages of wear and have the suspension arms assessed, a recognized weakness of the Ferrari 430 Scuderia. After that ... it's only happiness!
     

     
    A big THANK YOU to Riton for all this information. What drew you the most from reading this interview? What other questions would you have liked to ask? If you also own a Ferrari 430 Scuderia, what other advice would you give?
     
    If you liked that article, you might also like :
    - Long-term test: 20 months and 14,000 kilometers in a Ferrari 550 Maranello
    - Long term test: Calif38's Ferrari California
    - Long term test: Guillaume84's Ferrari F430
    - 50 Ferrarista members at the 70th anniversary of Ferrari in Maranello
    Franck
    The Ferrari 550 Maranello had been voted best sportscar of the decade in its time by the very famous English magazine EVO! Its price has never been so affordable, for a beautiful V12 in the purest tradition of the GT Ferrari. But what should you expect if you buy it? How will you find a beautiful example? What are the things you need to look at specifically before signing your check? What costs should you anticipate? Ideally, a Ferrari 550 Maranello owner will tell you about it. Precisely Bernard, owner of a Ferrari 550 Maranello for almost 2 years, agreed to answer my questions. Read his answers and you will learn a lot if you would like to purchase a Ferrari 550 Maranello.
     

     
    Franck : "Hello Bernard, what is your history with cars and why did you choose the Ferrari 550 Maranello?"
     
    Bernard : "When I was young, I had the chance to participate in various car races and to rub shoulders with Ferraris. Later, when the Ferrari 456 was released, I was impressed by its line and character. I thought that if one day I had to own a Ferrari, it would be this one!
     
    I was reading your blog, I had to change my car, and given the budget of a new Volvo C70, I said to myself why not keep my old one and devote this budget to a Ferrari? The hardest part was convincing my wife.
     
    At the start of my research, I saw some Ferrari 456! And I had to see that a 456 in good condition greatly exceeded my budget. By browsing the forums, I realized that the Ferrari 550 Maranello presented, for a lower budget, a great opportunity to acquire a Ferrari. With the manual gearbox, its legendary grille and its V12, it was just missing the two rear seats ... Too bad! "
     
    Franck : "What were your criteria for buying a Ferrari 550 Maranello and how did you find your copy?"
     
    Bernard : "The first Ferrari 550 Maranello I saw at a Volvo dealership impressed me and I took the necessary steps. I did not want a red because I felt that this color was reserved for sportscar. A fortnight later I was going down with my Ferrari 550 Maranello to Aix en Provence for a Ferrari concentration."
     

     
    Franck : "Immediately after the purchase, what impressed you the most about your Ferrari 550 Maranello?"
     
    Bernard : "From the start, at the wheel I was amazed by its comfort, precise steering and a very good driving position, even for tall people.
     
    The torque and flexibility of the V12 engine allow sporty driving without surprise, with an ideal weight distribution. I used to start in second, and if the highway is his favorite terrain, it is also comfortable in small mountain bends. The city is not his favorite territory. With its original exhaust and its "Grigio Nurburgring" color, it is discreet. "
     
    Franck : "Looking back, what are the good sides of your Ferrari 550 Maranello and the possible problems encountered?"
     
    Bernard : "First small concern, it is in June in Provence, the air conditioning does not work. We take advantage of good weather to rediscover the Cévennes and the Causse. No time to enjoy the scenery, but I discovered a real GT, as comfortable on small winding roads as on the highway.
     
    On the return I have the air conditioning repaired at the Ferrari dealer in Waterloo. Verdict: a new air conditioner. In my opinion the problem is specific to cars that stay a long time without driving, and first invoice. After that, I decided to have the bodywork detailed at Swissvax in Arlon. The investment is worth it, the Ferrari 550 Maranello found a new youth.
    Then I take advantage of a trip to Maranello with Ferrarista.club to visit Maranello, the Ferrari factory and especially the garage of Toni and its treasures. For me, these are unforgettable moments for any Ferrari lover. Before winter I have the maintenance of the 50,000 kilometers carried out and we notice a faulty distribution bearing.
     
    The Ferrari 550 Maranello will remain immobilized for more than a month while waiting for the bearings. The work is done by a former mechanic from the workshop of Jacques Swaters. This is my opportunity to discover the exposed Ferrari 550 Maranello. There are a few small problems: a servo brake hose to replace and a repaired radiator which will have to be monitored.
     
    After winter, a year already, 13,000 more kilometers and a passage to technical control without any problem! I replace the four tires, with a date of manufacture (DOT07) with new, more recent Michelin!
     
    A brief stay at Lake Como to discover the Villa d'Este and its wonders during the annual competition. A getaway to Deauville for baptisms in favor of Make A Wish, with visit to Etretat. I accumulate the kilometers with the Club Ferrari Belgio and decide to do an annual maintenance, engine and gearbox change! The Ferrari displays 60,000 kilometers on the odometer, it had 48,000 when I acquired it!
     
    During maintenance, it is noticed that one of the shock absorber sensors is defective. At Ferrari I am offered the replacement of the whole shock absorber (around 850 €). You can find a much cheaper solution, thanks to the American forums, by replacing only the defective part, a small gear, costing $ 31.
    We take this opportunity to check the four shock absorbers and we discover a fitting tinkered with glue on the radiator of the gearbox, which forces us to replace it (380 € + VAT).
     
    I participate in a final concentration with the Club Ferrari Belgio and I note at the end that the clutch stop has decided to manifest. Upon my acquisition, I anticipated this problem. This will be the biggest intervention, in parts alone, almost 3000 €. We replace the clutch thrust bearing and the complete mechanism, about 10 hours of labor. "
     

     
    Franck : "
    Can you tell us about the costs of using a Ferrari 550 Maranello?"
     
    Bernard : "My Italian car, born in 1997, had 48,000 kilometers on the odometer and two previous owners. The notebook was up to date. After my acquisition in May 2011, we had to replace the air conditioner and during the maintenance of the 50,000 kilometers in September 2011, we detected a defective bearing in the distribution.
     
    In June 2012 I replaced the 4 Michelin tires, more for safety reasons than for wear (at 50%). Cost of the operation: € 1,420. In September 2012, I drained the 60,000 kilometers and detected a faulty suspension actuator. Normally at Ferrari we replace the complete shock absorber. But it is possible to replace only the defective part.
     
    When I last went out, the clutch release bearing started to show signs of fatigue. I took the opportunity to replace the complete clutch (€ 3,000 of parts). The odometer now shows 62,000 kilometers. I plan to change the belts at the end of next year and take the opportunity to replace the rear brake discs, which were probably corrected by the previous owner. The registration fees and the traffic taxes in Belgium condemn the Ferrari 550 Maranello to migrate to other skies. Despite everything I plan to keep it for a long time, and I was lucky to find the mechanic that allows me to keep it healthy without too much cost!"
     
    Franck : "What advice would you give to someone looking to buy a Ferrari 550 Maranello?"
     
    Bernard : "For those who would be tempted to acquire a Ferrari 550 Maranello, it is not easy to check certain organs because the flat bottom prevents having a view of the state of the car. The elements which can cause problems are the suspensions, check the actuators, the clutch and the engine supports, as well as the drain plug of the radiator on the models before 2000. The air conditioning also must be well checked."
     

     
    Thank you Bernard for all your advice and information! I don't know about you, but I learned a lot about the Ferrari 550 Maranello. And you, what struck you the most when reading this discussion? What other questions would you like to ask Bernard? Do you own a Ferrari 550 Maranello and what additional advice could you give us?
     
    You might also like reading:
    - Long term test: Calif38's Ferrari California
    - Long term test: Guillaume84's Ferrari F430
    - Long term test: Matmatlr's Ferrari 348
    - Ferrari 308 and 328 buying guide : the various versions (1/3)
    Franck
    Each year, Rétromobile, in the heart of winter, launches the season and lets you see the market trends. Which Ferrari will be in the spotlight this year? Which Ferrari will be on sale? What is the market trend? What new Ferrari books are coming out? Which coachbuilders and vendors stand out and have the wind in their sails? What have the different event organizers prepared for 2018? Retromobile allows you to make a first round of these questions.
     

     
    The 50th anniversary of the Ferrari Daytona
     
    With the 50th anniversary of the iconic Ferrari Daytona being celebrated this year, you could see a lot in this 2018 edition of Rétromobile. You could see the stand of Ferrari Classiche, which seems the least of things, but also on stands of insurers, who know how to put forward.
     

     
    In all I counted a dozen Ferrari Daytona present at Rétromobile, which makes it the most present Ferrari! This is exceptional ! Exceptional also, the fact that among this dozen Ferrari Daytona, you could admire two beautiful copies of Ferrari Daytona Spider!
     
     

     
    On the Ferrari Classiche stand, the dust-covered Ferrari Daytona, with cat's footprints, was Japan's famous "barn exit".
     
    A good ten Ferrari 250 GT Passo Corto
     
    Equally exceptional, there were almost as many Ferrari 250 GT Passo Corto (or SWB for Short Wheel Base in English) present and mostly almost all on one stand, that of Lukas Hüni. This model is probably my favorite in the classic Ferrari, so seeing as many gathered, I was thrilled!
     

     
    A unique copy was present in the lot: the Ferrari 250 GT SWB bodied by Bertone and which is rarely visible. Unfortunately for the photos, he was exposed in the middle of the stand, with many spots shining on his dark blue body.
     

     
    The other classic Ferrari
     
    Among the other classic Ferrari, you first noticed three Ferrari 250 GT Cabriolet: a series 1, a series 2 and a California. All three in beautiful condition.
     

     
    You then noticed all the Ferrari 275 GTBs present. I counted no less than six. There was also a blue Ferrari 250 GTE, a red Ferrari 275 GTS presented by Gallery Aaldering or a grey Ferrari 330.
     

     
    You could also meet, at the turn of a stand, a Ferrari 166 MM, one of the first Ferrari produced by Ferrari. Some Dino were present at Retromobile, but much less than in previous years, from my point of view, as if the fad was a little past.

    Among the rarities, a Ferrari 212 export Vignale from 1951 was exhibited on the stand of Gallery Aaldering. A very nice Ferrari 250 GT Lusso was next to the Sport & Collection stand.
     

     
    Ferrari F1 and competition
     
    Several F1s of the 90s, driven by Alain Prost, Jean Alesi and Gerahrd Berger were present in the alleys of Rétromobile 2018. You could also admire a Ferrari 512 M, driven by David Piper, as well as a Ferrari 512 BB LM of the Ecurie Francorchamps, driven by Beurlys.
     

     

     
    Ferrari under 40 years
     
    This year there was from my point of view much less recent Ferrari on the stands of different sellers. The list is not exhaustive, but if I look at my photos, I count: two Ferrari F40s, including one on the Movendi stand, a Ferrari Enzo auction, two Ferrari F355, some Ferrari 308 and 328, and two Ferrari BB 512 including a beautiful, restored, brown / gold.
     

     
    Following the recent death of Johnny Halliday, one of the trends of this 2018 edition of Rétromobile was the cars that belonged to him. A Ferrari 512 TR, which will be auctioned in March, was exhibited on the Osenat stand.
     

     
    Lamborghini Miura at the Polo Storico
     
    There are many other very interesting automobiles in Retromobiles apart from Ferrari. For example, you can see your grandmother's Renault 4cv, or your father's Renautl 9, in the youngtimers section. You also have Renault taxis of the early twentieth century that offered you a ride outside the exhibition halls.
     

     
    My favorite, because it was really beautiful, was the Lamborghini Miura Verde presented on the stand of the Polo Storico Lamborghini. This is another trend, with the presence of the manufacturers' restoration centers at Rétromobile. They all play, including Ferrari, on their archives that they stage to assert their strong point.
     
    Conclusion
     
    Rétromobile is also a lot of meetings. I had the chance to visit backcountry this year with @Mike051 and Olivier. We met other members of Ferrarista on site, according to the aisles, whose @LUDO and @Caesar Nello.
    This event allows you to take the time to chat with other enthusiasts around the models.

    After a 2017 edition of Rétromobile devoted among other things to the 70th anniversary of Ferrari, this 2018 edition could have seemed very bland to the owners of Ferrari. It is not, as you have read, with, among others, the 50 years of the Ferrari Daytona and the dozen Ferrari 250 GT SWB present.

    Have you been to Retromobile 2018? What are the Ferrari and other models that have the most marked you? What did you notice about the auctions? Do you have questions if you could not get there?
     

    If you liked this article, you will also like:
    - 50 membres de Ferrarista aux 70 ans de Ferrari à Maranello
    - Les Ferrarista sur l'anneau du Rhin avec la gamme Ferrari
    - 120 membres et 45 Ferrari au Le Mans Classic 2016
    - Les 21 Ferrari à ne pas rater à Rétromobile 2016
    - The subject dedicated to the pictures from Retromobile 2018
    Franck
    The Ferrari California, in its version that appeared in 2009, represents a great commercial success for Ferrari, which brought a new clientele to the brand. Its residual value remains important and finding a good example is difficult, as for any Ferrari. How to do ? What are the associated costs? What to do to find one and how does it feel once his steering wheel is in your hands? The best thing is to ask these questions to an owner and it is @Calif38 who tells us about his acquisition.
     

     
    Franck: What is your driving career quickly and why did you choose the Ferrari California?
     
    Calif38: My first was a Renault 5 GT Turbo, it was the time of the first job and of driving in rallies. Then it was my first convertible, a Renault 19 Karman, with romantic outings: Corsica, Loire Valley and its castles.
     
    And my 3rd car was a Miata, for its evocation of English 60s car, in a modern version, reliable and comfortable. Then a BMW Z4 35i DKG for its interior / exterior design and its evocation of the BMW 507, another leading automotive design, elegance and lifestyle. Ferrari was for me a dream like any passionate kid who collected the Burago models and closely followed the release of the Ferrari Testa Rossa and the Ferrari  F40.
     

     
    Franck: What were your criteria for buying a Ferrari California and how did you find that copy?  
     
    Calif38: Ferrari was a brand unthinkable for its acquisition and maintenance costs until my professional and personal situation led me to realize that it is not really inaccessible anymore. It started with meeting a Ferrari 250 GT in Grigio and when I come across a Ferrari California 30 at Pozzi in the same shade. I find the evocation of a legendary former convertible, event a CC, with a motorization of character and interior design and level of finish in my taste.
     
    But owning a Porsche also tempts me and during a visit to a pro who offers a 991 and a Ferrari California, I felt in love for this model in Grigio Medio, an historic hue. This is my favorite and the copy is perfect, with a clear history and a big service just done. It had 18,000 km and still under a Power Warranty. She had only 2 owners in 6 years.
     

     
     
    Franck: Immediately after the purchase, what has impressed you the most on your Ferrari California?  
     
    Calif38: My Ferrari experience begins then. An experience of all senses, sight, smell, it has a subtle fragrance between leather luggage and a discreet smell of beautiful mechanics. It is a pure happiness and a reconquest each time. On board, we feel this DNA race, performance. Its chassis is remarkable, a direction and a millimeter placement, a perfect load distribution.  
     
    A comfortable, efficient car, with which it is possible to cruise quietly or accelerate strong enough to stay together with others Ferrari F430, on very sinuous and rolling portions. It is a versatile model, a successful synthesis between a sportivness and comfort thanks to a fantastic gearbox.  
     
    Franck: Can you tell us about the costs involved for normal use of a Ferrari California?  
     
    Calif38: I just did the annual service for 1,000 euros. During the first kilometers, I found a lot of soot on the rear bumper. This phenomenon disappeared after 1,500 km, probably due to an urban use by the previous owner.
     
    It is a vehicle that gives us, with my wife, a lot of pleasure and reactivate a passion for the automobile and the brand.
     

     
     
    Franck: And if you had to do it again?  
     
    Calif38: We are very happy with our choice and had the chance to be at the 70th anniversary of Ferrari in Maranello and live this with our two teenagers who had the banana smile.
     
    We think to keep this model in a rare combo and have the desire to own a second one. A V12? The dream or a rear V8, for more sportivness, which allowed to live the passion on the sporting side without competing with our GT model and in this case a spider once again ...
     

     
     
    A big THANK YOU to @Calif38 for all these details!  
     
    If you own a Ferrari California, what elements would you add to help those who want to buy this model? If you are looking for one, what are the questions you want to ask about it?  
     
    If you liked this article, you will also like:
    - Where should you have your Ferrari serviced?
    - Long term test: Guillaume84's Ferrari F430
    - Prices for the Ferrari 360 Modena and F430 over the last 6 years
    - Ferrari 308 and 328 buying guide : the various versions (1/3)
    - Long term test: Matmatlr's Ferrari 348
    Franck
    On Monday October 16, 2017, Ferrarista members were invited by the Modena Motors dealership to drive their Ferrari on the Anneau du Rhin circuit, as well as to test the Ferrari and Maserati ranges. A good opportunity to spend great time with other members, to make you happy driving your Ferrari and to forge your own opinion on the current range, even if the trap ... is to succumb to the novelty. Many members participated in all or part of the event, including @Ga68, @bernwizard, @JMM91, @Zaz, @Cyril68, @F355QV70, @Blaze, @Giallo-54.   Ferrarista dinner at the Domaine du Moulin in Ensisheim   Sunday, October 15, for members who came from far away and the locals not available the next day, was organized a Ferrari cruising on the most beautiful roads in the area. Some did not hesitate to make more than 500 kilometers for the occasion! A great sun, beautiful landscapes, enthusiasts, what more?     A dinner was then organized to discover and enjoy local specialties. It allowed all the group present to get to know each other, before turning on the circuit the next day. Thank you to @Zaz for the organization of this dinner and hotel reservations. The Domaine du Moulin in Essisheim was perfect! Wine for breakfast and homemade jams, we are not ready to forget! There was even the pool and sauna for those who took the time.   Anneau du Rhin circuit   The next day, on the Anneau du Rhin circuit, the track is in free access. This allows everyone to go at their own pace. An instructor is available to improve your driving throughout the day. The top, on a track where few vehicles drive at the same time.   These sessions also allow you to see and hear other Ferrari on the track, including the new Ferrari 812 Superfast and Ferrari GTC4Lusso. The sound of their V12 at full load is remarkable, compared to that of the V8, which are however not left out. The sound level is the highest at the passage of the Ferrari F430 Challenge. It has no road homologation standards to follow, while they have not stopped reducing the volume of Ferrari in recent years.     The lunch allowed you to admire the old Ferrari concession present on the spot, on which give the bay windows of the room of the meal. Cars, especially racing cars, are always stored there. Lunch is also an opportunity to discuss further with all participants.   Testing the Ferrari and Maserati ranges   The highlight of the day, from my point of view, were the tests of the Ferrari and Maserati ranges. Everyone booked a slot and a vehicle at the Modena Motors dealership before coming. But in the end we could test more than expected.   For my part, I started my tests with the Ferrari 488 Spider. It's the one I reserved. She was white and convertible, to enjoy the big sun that day. I pass on the first meters realized in automatic mode. At 50 km/h, you are already on the 7th gear, in a silence and comfort such that you are no longer in my definition of a Ferrari. I understand that it meets the needs of a certain clientele.     So I moved quickly into more sporty modes by turning the manettino. And here it is immediately more enjoyable! The sound is omnipresent, despite the turbos, and even more at low revs. It's very nice, especially since the car is very responsive. I was able to make a second test as a passenger, which confirmed me as it is fabulous as a sportcar usable daily.   The Ferrari 812 Superfast is not in the same league. You are in a coupe, sitting almost on the rear wheels, it is more impressive with its 800 horsepowers! But the grip is just as easy, in automatic mode at 50 km/h on the 7th gear. Everyone can drive it!     If you turn the manettino and raise the tone, it is however very different. The elasticity of the engine and the sound of the V12 have nothing to do with the Ferrari 488. The way the power is delivered either. And what is very impressive is the agility in fast turns, thanks to the four-wheel steering! A ballerina. And probably my favorite test. A world separates it from the Ferrari 599 GTB, which is already a superb Ferrari.   I also tested the Ferrari GTC4Lusso. I'm not a fan of the look, but inside, to travel with your family, it's fabulous. The V12 is present, with its qualities, including vocalises. It is not a sportcar, as the 812 Superfast knows to be if it is needed, but a very good GT.   After having made a second test in the rear passenger seat, the electrochromic roof is essential, because it gives the impression, behind, that you are the front passenger. You enjoy a panoramic view that avoids any feeling of clautrophobia, in its rear seats that are comfortable but not very big.     When is the next time?   I had a great time thanks to the members present and the Modena Motors dealership. Thank you ! A big thank-you ! Too bad there were not even more members of Ferrarista to enjoy this event. Maybe for the next, because it was a first.   And you, what was your opinion on this release, if you participated? And if not, do you think that this type of event should be reiterated? Would you participate? How can we improve it? Thank you for your feedback.   If you liked this article, you will also like: - 50 Ferrarista members at the 70th anniversary of Ferrari in Maranello - 32 members and 19 Ferrari at the charity event at Le Havre - 24 members Visiting Maranello and the Mille Miglia 2016 - Where should you have your Ferrari serviced? - Long term test: Guillaume84's Ferrari F430
    Franck
    Ferrari has just celebrated its 70th birthday in Maranello and a fifty members of Ferrarista made the trip for the occasion. Half went on a five-day trip organized by Ferrarista. So what did you have access to? Was the trip worth it? What did the members of Ferrarista have seen?     Ferrari Parade Ferrari in Maranello   Ferrari had organized a rally from several major cities in Europe. But we decided to go directly to Maranello to make the most of the festivities there ... and to make some complementary visits (Pagani, Maserati, Lamborghini, etc.).  
    On Saturday morning, September 10, we were on the Via Abetone Inferiore, in Maranello, which passes in front of the historic entrance of the factory Ferrari, to enjoy the parade of the 120 Ferrari participating in the contest of elegance. The rally organized by Ferrari with the modern Ferrari did not arrive until late afternoon.   This parade was really impressive. I've seen a lot of them, but never as many priceless old Ferraris in a row. Imagine the Mille Miglia whose all cars would be uniquely Ferrari. Huge ! All in an excited atmosphere, with lots of spotters filming and taking pictures. There are people, but not too many. You can see the Ferraris, who pass twice in the street.     Exhibition of the contest of elegance in Modena
    Saturday morning, these 120 Ferrari of the contest of elegance then leave for Modena. We return to the hotel to take our Ferrari. Fortunately, the hotel is located only 200 meters from the historic entrance of the Ferrari factory and we are quickly in our Ferrari. It was our turn to parade in convoy in Maranello, which means that we find ourselves on many videos and photos of spotters. A few seconds of glory ... but it is always a pleasure to be in a video about such an event.     We arrive in Modena at the same time as the convoy of the 120 Ferrari of the contest of elegance because we took the fast lane. The police and organizers force us to follow the 120 Ferrari convoy. It's always a pleasure to be at the heart of the party! At the Ferrari Museum in Modena, we arrive when the 120 Ferrari parade has just passed, which frees us some parking spaces just at the right time.     We are then very close to the place of the Military Academy where all the Ferrari of the concours of elegance are exposed. We cross a park and we are there, just in time to see the latest Ferrari arrive, in an atmosphere worthy of the Mille Miglia in Brescia. The Ferrari gently crack the crowd and amazed.
    On the square, many people hurry to admire the Ferrari under a great sun. After seeing these Ferrari in motion, it's time to detail them at the stop. As always, when we return after the lunch break, there are far fewer people around the Ferrari. This is the perfect time to photograph them.
    Accreditation for the festivities of the 70 years of Ferrari     But we are in a hurry! We had information that we, as owners of Ferrari, could withdraw accreditations to participate in the festivities of the 70 years of Ferrari on the circuit of Fiorano. Unbelievable ! It would be enough to provide the gray card of our car and two pieces of ID to get the pass for the owner and a companion.     However Ferrari had disseminated the information that this would only be possible for owners registered for the rally and billed between 4 and 5,000 euros. Ferrari even asked the owners not to come tp this event if not registered for the rally. We want to go quickly to the Ferrari Museum in Maranello where the accreditations are provided, in case the number of places is limited or if this possibility is reduced to a few hours.     On the spot, not everyone gets easy accreditation. It depends on the person behind the wicket, the speech held, the number of people, etc. But in the end, almost all the members of Ferrarista present manage to get their pass!   Ferrari auction   With our accreditations, we change our program to make the most of this opportunity. Let's go to the circuit of Fiorano where the festivities have started. Starting with the auction. An enormous open-air theater was mounted for the occasion at the edge of the circuit. Sales follow one another, filmed for live broadcast. Prices are high for some models. Others create the show, as when the Ferrari 333SP is on the podium. What a 12-cylinder sound!    
    Many big booths have been mounted on this side of the track: an open-bar to quench your thirst, sponsor booths presenting their products and offering goodies, a booth of presentation of the all-new Ferrari Portofino, showing the rest of the Ferrari range, whose doors are open to you, etc. In the middle are exhibited by class, the 120 Ferrari of the concours of elegance. That's wonderful. On the second part of the circuit, the 500 Ferrari of the rally park as they arrive. The crowd jubilant before the entrance of the circuit asks them to roar the engine of their Ferrari.  
    The Ferrarista dinner  
    On Saturday night, Ferrarista created the event in the event with a dinner in the heart of Maranello. It brought together some fifty members in the best restaurant in the region, according to TripAdvisor: @Titof, @Stradale V8, @grhum, @Red and hot, @Boz352, @chris38, @Vincent993, @Calif38, @LINO27, @JMM91,  @Zaz, @VIF ECLAIR, @nico170781, @EZ98, @bernwizard, @super_goozy, @308gt4, @ppi.sud77, @Dulabourd, @antorzr,@golfeur77, @Trois cinquante cinq and their accompanying persons.     It is the occasion to put heads on pseudonyms and to blow the candles of the 70 years of Ferrari and the 10 years of Ferrarista in a very good atmosphere. A birthday cake was even planned, giving us the opportunity to all sing together! The restaurant was excellent and the pouring rain, with many flashes, dissuaded the majority to continue the evening at the Ferrari show in Fiorano. It was broadcast on TV on the Rai. Jamiroquai, a great Ferrari enthusiast, sang 5 songs at the end of the show.     The 500 Ferrari Rally   Back in Fiorano on Sunday morning, we take the opportunity to see the 500 Ferrari from the rally that arrived the day before. They put the atmosphere in the street accessing Fiorano the day before, to the delight of the Tifosi who do not have access to the festivities at Fiorano.  
    Of the 500 Ferrari, 95% are modern: several LaFerrari, dozens of Ferrari F12 TDF, many of the 350 Ferrari "tailor made" produced for the 70th bityhday of Ferrari, Ferrari 488, 458 Speciale, ... Extremely rare were the Ferrari 308/328/348 / F355 or the Testarossa / 512TR. But when you are passionate about Ferrari, it's a dream to detail all these cars, according to their combinations of colors and options, that give you ideas.     Two members of Ferrarista who participated in the rally tell us that the roads, with Ferrari everywhere, were magnificent, and that the hotels and restaurants were very good. Two problems were reported. First of all, the roadbook provided stopped at Parma, so they did not know how to get to Maranello. That's why they arrived in scattered order and that there was no parade of the 500 Ferrari of the rally in Maranello. Too bad for the tifosi. Then the Ferrari were to stay in Fiorano on Saturday night and the owners were brought by bus to their hotel in Parma, more than an hour's drive. It's long.     Visits to Ferrari, Pagani, Maserati and Lamborghini factories and museums
    Not being certain we could participate in much of the festivities for the 70th anniversary, we had booked a number of visits to factories and museums. We were thus assured not to make the trip for nothing.  
    We visited the manufacture of Hublot watches, on our way to Maranello. Then the Maserati factory, the Pagani factory and museum, the Ferrari concession in Modena, the Maserati collection in Panini, the Ferrari museum in Modena, the Lamborghini museum in Sant'Agata Bolognese, the Scaglietti coachbuilder and the Ferrari factory, as well as the Ferrari Museum in Maranello. This makes you a relatively busy schedule, in which you do not get bored, interspersed with meals in excellent restorants related to Ferrari's history.    
    Were you present at Ferrari's 70th birthday in Maranello? What did you remember? What did you prefer?   If you liked this article, you might also like : - 24 members Visiting Maranello and the Mille Miglia 2016 - 32 members and 19 Ferrari at the charity event at Le Havre - Do not miss those 21 Ferrari at Retromobile 2016
    Franck
    Were you advised to first look for the mechanic who will maintain your Ferrari before finding the Ferrari of your dreams? It is a good idea because its maintenance and history will be paramount so that your experience does not turn into a nightmare. And good specialists are rare, very rare. Finding the right one can take longer than finding the right Ferrari.
     
    So where do Ferrari owners go to do their routine maintenance? Which types of garages are preferred? By reading the forums, you might think that many are doing their own maintenance, given the number of discussions on the subject, or that official concessions, some complaining, should be avoided. But what is it actually? There is nothing better than a survey of the Ferrari owners to know the truth. And the results of this survey could be surprising.
     
    Survey characteristics
     
    The question asked to the Ferrari owners was simple: "Where do you maintain your Ferrari in 2017?". Not an exceptional intervention for which you prefer an official stamp or for a tire change, but just the annual maintenance of your Ferrari.

    Six answers were possible: in an official Ferrari dealership, in a specialized Ferrari garage, in a garage specializing in exceptional sports cars, in a non-specialized garage, in a car center, by yourself or by a friend.
     

     
    200 Ferrari owners replied (195 to be precise, at the time of the writing of this article), which represents a nice panel given the number of owners of Ferrari in France. It should be kept in mind that on Ferrarista the members are mainly first-time buyers and enthusiasts, that is to say that they reflect rather the majority of the owners of Ferrari, compared to the minority who buys new Ferrari or multi-million Ferrari.

    For more details, you can find this poll here: Click HERE to see the poll
     
    In an official Ferrari dealership
     
    One-third of Ferrarista's members carry out their revisions in an official Ferrari dealership. This may seem like a lot to you, if like me you regularly read on the forum feedback sometimes negative about concessions. But it should not be forgotten that on the forums people rarely intervene to say that everything is fine, and especially when they are not happy. And regarding an official Ferrari dealership, it can be expected that their level of requirement is as high as possible.

    A part of this relatively high score is explained by the fact that the Ferrari sold new since 2012 have a free maintenance contract in concession for 7 years . This contract is transmitted to the resale of your Ferrari, few buyers keeping their Ferrari for 7 years. This assures Ferrari that during 7 years the maintenance will be done in concession. This allows the owner to retain the manufacturer's warranty, which is often extended for a fee (Power Warranty).

    Another part of the score is explained by the fact that many owners think about resale: the official stamp of a Ferrari dealers reassures the future buyer. For him, this stamp means that it is not a stranger who worked on this Ferrari, it is someone trained by the factory. The official standards of the mark were respected, with original parts. Traceability of the interventions on this Ferrari is then ensured by the Ferrari network.

    The survey does not go down in this level of detail, but you can expect that the score achieved by official Ferrari dealerships would be much higher if it were only for the recent Ferraris, those less than 10 years old, for example.
     

     
    Ferrari Specialist
     
    The Ferrari specialists' score is the same as the concessions, which is a good score. Often these workshops are run by people who have worked in official Ferrari dealerships. They know the models well, were trained by the factory and kept links with the concessions (for the purchase of parts in particular).

    Their advantage is that their tariffs are lower than those of an official concession and that they can offer a customized service à la carte, which is not permitted by the industrialization of concessions. They may spend more time solving a complex outage or adjusting small details (such as a squeak heard at a particular location) that annoy an owner but take time to resolve.

    Ferrari specialists also offer the advantage of being closer geographically than concessions, which for some owners are several hundred kilometers away. This is not practical.
     
    Exceptional sports specialist
     
    Specialists in exceptional sports won 16% of the vote, which is half the size of the official Ferrari dealerships or Ferrari specialists. It is a good score because the Ferrari are very technically sharp. It is necessary to have the specific equipment (suitcase for example for electronics).

    This good score is probably explained in part because the owners of Ferrari have mostly owned other sports before. If they know a good specialist, they keep it . Good addresses are rare. If they have seen regular Ferraris in maintenance with this specialist, they remain there with less apprehension.

    There is also the case of owners of Ferrari who own several cars, a small collection, for which all maintenance is carried out at the same specialist of confidence.

    Unlike the official Ferrari dealerships, you might expect that the specialist score (Ferrari specialists or specialists in exceptional sports) would be even more important if this poll focused on the old Ferraris, those of more than 15 Or 20 years for example.
     
    Non-specialized garage
     
    The score achieved by non-specialized garages is 2.75%. This is a low but logical score: Ferrari are sharp cars that require specific skills and experience. You can imagine that the owners who carry out maintenance of their Ferrari in a non-specialized garage do so because they know the garage very well and / or because their Ferrari is old and does not require the current technology. They will rather be owners who wish to keep their Ferrari, who do not need the stamp of a dealership to reassure a buyer, and just wish for a job well done at the best price.
     

     
    Center car
     
    The choice of car center had been added in this survey a bit like a provocation: car centers are widely used in the world of car maintenance but you do not think of it to maintain your Ferrari! The score is very low at 0.55%, which seems logical. But the exception exists, as do the competent car centers.
     
    You or a friend
     
    16% of the owners of Ferrari indicated to carry out the routine maintenance of their Ferrari themselves or by a friend. This means 1 owner out of 6, which is a significant score.

    Carrying out routine maintenance, in this case an annual review, remains relatively easy. We would not have the same score for more complicated procedures, such as changing belts with engine removal, for example. Even though tutorials made by owners who have done so are relatively numerous on the forum.

    A forum naturally attracts more owners who have technical questions , because they do some operations themselves. This population can therefore be over-represented in this survey, compared to all Ferrari owners.

    This figure also reflects the share of older Ferrari owners who are easier to maintain, and that you keep longer because you are less attracted by the acquisition of the latest novelty.
     
    Conclusion
     
    In short, one-third of the owners go on concessions, one-third to a Ferrari specialist, and the remaining third go to a specialist in exceptional cars and half to self-made work. Prior to this survey, were you expecting such a distribution? Which score surprised you the most? What other reasons do you see for explaining the results?
     
    If you liked this article, you might also like :
    - Long term test: Guillaume84's Ferrari F430
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    guillaume84
    The Ferrari F430 appeared in 2005 as an evolution of the Ferrari 360 Modena, with among others a new and much more powerful engine and a chain of distribution. It is very sought after because, with about ten years, its price is relatively stable, while remaining modern and without too much expenses related to its age.
     
    What should you know about the Ferrari F430 before buying one? The best is always to have the return of owners who drove with this model for years. Guillaume84 is a member of Ferrarista.club who has had the pleasure of driving in Ferrari F430 in recent years. He even added a Ferrari 348 since.
     

     
    Franck : What is your history with cars and why did you choose the Ferrari F430?
     
    Guillaume84 : Hi Franck, my return about my automotive history is pretty fast. The only "sporting car" I had was the Fiat Stylo Abarth, with the 5-cylinder 170 hp and the robotic box. Otherwise I rode with my brother in his cars, with among others the mythical Peugeot 205 GTI 130 cv. So you see, pretty restricted.
     
    In fact, at the beginning, I was not stopped at all on the Ferrari F430 but on the 360 Modena or the 348, which were more accessible to my purse. I went to see the famous 348 which was scrapped, that everyone knows now, and on the forum I was clearly advised against it as a first purchase because of 3 they made one, they said ....
     
    So I searched for Ferrari 360 Modena and "people" told me to pay attention to the clutch on the first models ... Bla bla bla. On the advice of my brother, he said "wait a bit and look for a Ferrari F430, plus no belt to change on it". So here I go in search of a Ferrari F430 in France and Italy.
     
    Franck : What were your criteria for purchasing a Ferrari F430 and how did you find it?
     
    Guillaume84 : Simple criteria, red or yellow, black leather interior with matching stitching. I did not even know that there existed ceramic breaks, carbon bucket seats, etc. etc.
     
    So on Autoscout I put a search and almost immediately I found this one, and the config tapped me in the eye, to the point that I dreamed of it the night. So after long exchanges by mail, to have the invoices, papers etc. etc, I made the trip to Turin to see it at the private seller. We agreed and the dream came true!
     

     
    Franck :  Immediately after the purchase, what has the most impressed you on your Ferrari F430?
     
    Guillaume84 : Oh my god, it's a Ferrari! No, it's MY Ferrari!
     
    When it is your first prestige car, besides the myth, everything is beautiful and perfect, even the impacts of gravel do not bother;)
     
    Otherwise surprised by the engine and the atmosphere on board, the smell and the sensations.
     
    Franck :  With hindsight, what are the good sides of your copy of Ferrari F430 and the possible problems or defects encountered?
     
    Guillaume84 : It was not perfect, impacts of gravel and friction on the front bumper. But the red carpets still had their delivery plastic, despite the 30,000 km of the car, so it was pampered.
     
    The only mechanical defect was encountered during an exit with the cars and coffee south, with the rupture of a hose of the F1 box and it forced me to stop and have the car repatriated to a specialist well known here . Besides thanks to the forum for having made his acquaintance!
     

     
    Franck : Can you talk about the costs incurred for normal use of a Ferrari F430?
     
    Guillaume84 : The costs, if you have only the current to do, it's not much in relation to the car it is. And of course, if one has the right foot heavy or not. As an example, the Pirelli tires that I put a year after having the car, when adding the Ferrari 430 Scuderia rims, I kept them more than 20,000 km.
     
    I changed the clutch after 6 months and 6,000 km in preventive, like all the hoses of the F1 box, so as not to have worries on that side. Since that, it is a revision per year and I use the car. I ride less than the first year because since the famous 348 joined the nest.
     
    So to summarize and make short, it is roughly for 3,000 km per year a revision of 1,000 euros and 1,200 euros insurance, excluding mechanical problems and big intervention.
     
    Franck : What if you had to do it again?
     
    Guillaume84 : I might do the same thing with a different search. Because now I know more about the Ferrari market and the options available on this model. And surely I would head to a more sporty model like the Ferrari Challenge Stradale or the Ferrari 430 Scuderia.
     
    A big THANK YOU to Guillaume84 for sharing all this information! If you have any questions about the Ferrari F430, please leave a comment. If you have one and want to add details, you can also use the comments.
     
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    Franck
    For the sixth year in a row, Pour la sixième année consécutive, Ferrarista members have offered to have a ride in their Ferrari, at Le Havre, to raise money for a good cause. Many thanks to Joël, JMJ61, AzScud, JMM91, BossProtection, Pierrebx, Trafalgar, Ferdelance76, nanfer28, Guillaume ... for the many rides performed on Saturday the 17th of September at the Docks Vauban at Le Havre. The cause sustained this year was France Alzeihmer 76 that help people with Alzeihmers disease.   Parisian convoy   Appointment was taken, for Ferrarista members leaving Paris, on Saturday morning at 8:30 am on the first rest stop after the toll of Mantes-la-Jolie. Rinding together, with a dozen Ferrari before you and in your mirrors, is always a rare pleasure, which allows a great start for a meeting. It also allows participants to meet before the event really starts, which facilitates the integration into the group. A convoy also avoids that some people have trouble finding the precise location of the event. In short, a departure in convoy has many advantages !     Once there, we had to proceed to the inscriptions. These formalities are essential to ensure the smooth running of the event, with only owners who have a license, insurance, a plan of the circuit ... It is the opportunity to retrieve the tickets for lunch and discuss with representatives of the beneficiary association of the operation, France Alzheimer this year.   The rides   Amongst the cars, a high diversity was proposed by the members of Ferrarista: from the Ferrari 458 Speciale to the Ferrari 612 Scaglietti, through the Ferrari 430 Scuderia, Ferrari F430 and F430 Spider, Ferrari 360 Modena, Ferrari F355 and Ferrari 348. But the other marquees were not forgottel, for even more variety, with an Audi R8 V10, a Corvette Z06 or a Porche 911 Cabriolet, for example.   After the first offered rides in the dry, allowing to discover the circuit, it's time for lunch. It's a complete menu that was offered in the Pizzria Del'Arte, whose wiondows overlooked our Ferrari. Tomato mozzarella, pizza or pasta choice, tiramisu or dessert sampler, a coffee and a drink : we remain in Italy and the food is good after getting up so early. The restaurant owner came to see us to discuss : he's a Ferrarista member!     The afternoon is the heart of the action. From 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm the rain falls, making the road wet and candidates for a ride are rare. Usually we did lots of rides without stopping, this time it was a fight to ge tsomeone for a ride in your car. The funds raised will be lower this year, but the smiles of the children, happy to ride in a Ferrari, were there. The slightest affluence has also allowed some parents to offer 4 or 5 rides to their children. Even though the money raised is not yet knpwn, it wil help people with Alzheimer's disease.   Evening meeting with members of Ferrarista   At 6:00 pm a cocktail was offered, always behind the windows of Pizzeria Del'Arte, allowing to lokk at our cars. The presidents of the two local Lions Clubs took the oppotunity to thank all the drivers. Throughout the event, many announcements at the micro had indicated that the pilots were volunteers and paid their gas, because general public don't know it and sometimes they think they are paid.   At 8:80 pm we went to the Les Régates restaurant on the harbor of Le Havre. A maritime atmosphere in the marina, around a good meal, allowed the members to disccus about their day and to better know each other.     Cruising on the côte fleurie   A cruising on the côte fleurie, particulary between Le Havre and Deauville, through Honfleur, was organised on Sunday the 18th of September in the morning to allow the members of Ferrarista coming from afar to spend a whole weekend there and have more time to meet.   The sun in the Sunday morning was good after the rain of the previous day and allowed convertibles to drop their hood. In Deauville, all the present members enjoyed a coffee taken on the boards of the famous beach of Deauville.   This cruising ended with a lunch at the Country Club of Le Havre. This restaurant offers not only quality food, but also a magnificent view of the city of Le Havre and the whole Seine bay. Ideal to finish off this weekend passed together and to give the will to come back next year!     Results   The rain kept us to achieve as many rides as in the previous years. We discussed about it with the members of the Lions Clubs that organize this event and communication around this event should be strengthened to address this case. The cruising on the Côte Fleurie will probably go to Etretat next year.   Were you present for the sixth edition of our charity event with our Ferrari in Le Havre? What did you like most? Will you be present next year?  
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